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The 16 Best Bars in SoMa, San Francisco

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of SoMa in San Francisco, the bar scene offers a diverse range of options for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a trendy cocktail lounge, a lively sports bar, or a cozy dive bar, SoMa has something for everyone.

From craft beer breweries to upscale wine bars, bars in SoMa cater to all tastes and preferences. With a mix of upscale cocktail spots and laid-back watering holes, there's no shortage of places to grab a drink and unwind after a long day.

Explore the bustling bar scene in SoMa and discover some of the best spots to enjoy a night out in San Francisco.

How this guide is ordered

Our San Francisco editors picked these businesses citywide, giving priority to a reputation earned over time, details we have verified and strong, consistent work. Lists are revisited regularly, and we act on readers' notes about closures and moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Compare 16 local options

Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen#1
What stands out
  • A classic dive bar with awesome service and great prices.

  • Thick and refreshing burgers that are a must-try.

  • A cool spot with friendly staff, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Amazing food, super friendly staff, and a chill atmosphere perfect for visitors.

Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen

4.51,792 reviews
2940 431 Natoma St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen is a must-visit bar located in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and highlights. Customers can enjoy Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. The bar is known for its Bar games, Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, and sports atmosphere.

The establishment provides accessibility features such as a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet. Customers can enjoy offerings like alcohol, beer, cocktails, food, and happy-hour drinks. The atmosphere is described as casual and trendy, catering to groups and being LGBTQ+ friendly.

According to customer reviews, Tempest is highly praised for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, great prices, fantastic food, and memorable experiences. Here are some key points summarized from customer reviews:

Don't miss out on the experience at Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen!

Zeitgeist#2
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the punk patio beer bar vibe and excellent food selection.

  • Many enjoy the extensive tap list and well-organized beer options.

  • Visitors love the large patio area with communal tables and tasty menu items.

Zeitgeist

4.32,935 reviews
199 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Zeitgeist is a popular beer garden located in San Francisco. It offers a variety of services, including outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in options, and bar games. Customers can enjoy great bar food, cocktails, and live performances in a casual and trendy atmosphere. The business is known for its diverse alcohol offerings, including beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits.

The venue has received positive reviews from patrons, highlighting the enjoyable atmosphere, wide beer selection, and friendly staff. If you're looking for a vibrant beer garden experience in San Francisco, Zeitgeist is a must-visit spot.

Novela#3
What stands out
  • Wonderful cocktails and exemplary service with a fun atmosphere.

  • Great service, cocktails, and music, perfect spot for a night out.

  • Fun themed bar with an excellent atmosphere and rich drink selection.

  • Charming place with tasty cocktails, although the menu could offer more vegetable-heavy options.

Novela

4.31,516 reviews
662 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Novela is a chic cocktail bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of services to its patrons. From Delivery to Takeaway and Dine-in options, Novela caters to various preferences. Known for its Fast service and a Great wine list, customers can enjoy a night out with top-notch Great cocktails. The venue also hosts Live performances to keep the atmosphere lively.

Here are some summarized customer reviews:

District San Francisco#4
What stands out
  • Amazing happy hour deals and a hidden gem near the ball park

  • Delicious food, especially the pork belly brussel sprouts and beef sliders

  • Great wines and cocktails, perfect for a date night

  • Well-researched cocktail list with efficient and prompt service

District San Francisco

4.4615 reviews
216 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

District San Francisco is a popular restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Their service options include Kerbside pickup, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, catering to various preferences. The restaurant is known for its fast service and offers a great selection of beers, cocktails, and wines. Customers have praised the great wine list and the overall casual and trendy atmosphere.

Some customer reviews highlight the following key points:

With a rating of 4.4 out of 5, District San Francisco continues to attract locals and visitors alike with its fantastic offerings and welcoming ambiance.

Alchemist Bar & Lounge#5
What stands out
  • This is such a hidden gem. The cocktails were AMAZING and so unique. The food was surprisingly really good. Staff was friendly and service was great. We'll definitely be back.

  • The bartender was amazing. I highly recommend the Brussel sprouts & wings. The inside of the bar was nice. Definitely go that route, trust me.

  • The Happy Hour experience was disappointing, as it wasn't available on weekends. However, the food and drinks were fine.

  • Interesting array of drinks on the menu. Will give it another try next time I'm in the neighborhood.

Alchemist Bar & Lounge

4.3950 reviews
679 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Alchemist Bar & Lounge is a trendy cocktail bar located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. This hidden gem offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. With an atmosphere described as casual, cosy, and trendy, customers can enjoy fast service and a great beer selection, along with their great cocktails.

Customer Reviews:

Mars Bar & Restaurant#6
What stands out
  • The food bar offers a pleasant experience with a friendly staff

  • Great outdoor patio for those looking to work or relax

  • LGBTQ+ friendly environment with cool spaces and friendly staff

Mars Bar & Restaurant

4.4549 reviews
798 Brannan St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Mars Bar & Restaurant is the go-to spot for those looking to enjoy great beer selection and delicious cocktails in San Francisco. With a rating of 4.4, this bar offers a variety of highlights including fast service and live performances, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Whether you're into dancing or enjoying a casual atmosphere, Mars Bar & Restaurant has something for everyone. Customers have highlighted the friendly service, the cozy atmosphere, and the variety of live music as reasons to keep coming back. So, if you're in the area, make sure to stop by this neighborhood gem for a memorable experience.

Local Tap#7
What stands out
  • Great bar with welcoming staff and a fantastic beer selection.

  • Restaurant-quality food at bar prices, making customers feel like part of the family.

  • Exquisite beer selection, 5-star service, and a great spot for watching sports games with indoor and outdoor TVs.

  • Outstanding food, craft beers, and a must-visit location near the stadium for an amazing experience.

Local Tap

4.4542 reviews
600 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Local Tap is a popular sports bar in San Francisco that offers a variety of services to its customers. Whether you're looking for delivery, takeaway, or prefer dine-in options, Local Tap has you covered. The establishment prides itself on fast service, a great selection of beers and cocktails, and a lively sports atmosphere that caters to groups and tourists alike.

With a rating of 4.4 based on 542 reviews, Local Tap has received high praise from its patrons. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Local Tap's amenities include toilets, and they offer parking options for patrons. The establishment also allows dogs, making it a pet-friendly place to enjoy delicious food and drinks. If you're in San Francisco and looking for a casual, cozy, and trendy spot to unwind with friends, Local Tap is the place to be.

Driftwood#8
What stands out
  • I happened to be here on the owner’s birthday party. I love the atmosphere!

  • The fighting of the blight improved the atmosphere. Your company makes or breaks your experience.

  • A great way to start the evening or finish a cool night out. You won't be disappointed with the atmosphere.

  • Happy hour Old Fashioneds are strong and cheap enough to have more than you should on a weekday afternoon.

Driftwood

4.5313 reviews
1225 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Driftwood is a vibrant cocktail bar located in San Francisco, CA. This establishment offers a variety of services, including dine-in options and a wide range of alcoholic beverages such as beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine. Customers can enjoy fast service, a great beer selection, live music, and engaging live performances.

With a rating of 4.5 stars, it's clear that customers have had a positive experience at Driftwood. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Wine Down SF#9
What stands out
  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff

  • Great for hosting events

  • Safe and welcoming environment

  • Lively atmosphere and friendly servers

Wine Down SF

4.6130 reviews
685 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Wine Down SF is a popular wine bar located in San Francisco. Known for its great wine list and fast service, customers rave about the cozy and trendy atmosphere. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.6 and 130 reviews, Wine Down SF is a top choice for those looking to unwind with a glass of wine in the heart of the city.

The Lark#10
What stands out
  • A friendly and welcoming ambiance, perfect for watching multiple games simultaneously.

  • Great selection of beers and cocktails, with cold Guinness that is fresh and clean.

  • Convenient location with spacious seating, ideal for striking up conversations and enjoying the lively vibe.

The Lark

4.3587 reviews
685 Market St Suite 140 A, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

The Lark is a popular sports bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of amenities and services tailored for sports enthusiasts. The bar provides a casual and trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to catch a game with friends or fellow fans.

Customers have highlighted several key points about their experiences at The Lark:

Whether you're a local looking for a cozy spot to relax or a traveler seeking a genuine sports bar experience, The Lark offers a memorable time with its excellent service and offerings.

Victory Hall & Parlor#11
What stands out
  • Delicious cocktails, especially the pineapple ginger mojito.

  • Beautifully decorated space with a variety of seating options.

  • Amazing drinks selection supporting local events like the CAAM film festival.

  • Phenomenal food options available from a neighboring establishment.

Victory Hall & Parlor

4.4307 reviews
360 Ritch St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Victory Hall & Parlor is a vibrant bar located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its fast service and extensive selection of beer and cocktails, this establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, Victory Hall & Parlor caters to every preference.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Visit Victory Hall & Parlor to experience a casual yet trendy atmosphere, excellent service, and a diverse menu of food and drinks.

The Rumpus Room#12
What stands out
  • Customers love the dive bar feel with a charming and cozy interior.

  • Roxanne, the owner, serves strong drinks and has a rich knowledge of the bar's history.

  • Regular events like karaoke on Tuesdays and live music make each visit special.

  • The bar is a great spot for happy hour or to enjoy before heading to a concert at the nearby Warfield.

The Rumpus Room

4.5170 reviews
10 6th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

The Rumpus Room is a beloved bar located in San Francisco, offering a charming and cozy atmosphere to its patrons. Customers rave about the great beer selection and stiff drinks served by the friendly owner, Roxanne. The bar features karaokes on Tuesday nights and live music, creating a vibrant and entertaining experience for guests.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Executive Order Bar & Lounge#13
What stands out
  • An exceptional experience hosting a birthday party with delicious food, great drinks, music, and attentive staff.

  • Impressive catering for a corporate event with a vast selection of liquor and beer.

  • Daily happy hours with a unique Filipino American fusion menu and welcoming staff with great drink recommendations.

  • A memorable high school reunion celebrated with outstanding appetizers, drinks, and a professional and friendly staff.

Executive Order Bar & Lounge

4.4233 reviews
868 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Executive Order Bar & Lounge is a top-notch cocktail bar located in the heart of San Francisco. They offer a range of services such as Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options for their customers. With highlights like Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, and Live performances, this bar promises an unforgettable experience.

Customers have raved about their time at Executive Order Bar & Lounge. Some key points from their reviews include:

The 4.4-star rating ensures that customers are in for a treat at this establishment. Whether you're looking to host a special event or simply enjoy a relaxing evening with friends, Executive Order Bar & Lounge is the place to be!

Natoma Cabana#14
What stands out
  • Great cocktail bar near major tech offices downtown with a tropical themed decor.

  • Popular happy hour spot with a variety of mezcal cocktails and chill vibes.

  • Fun hidden bar with beautiful decor, good for small to medium-sized groups.

Natoma Cabana

4.3336 reviews
90 Natoma St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Natoma Cabana is a popular **Bar** located in San Francisco, offering a range of services such as **Dine-in**, **Great beer selection**, **Great cocktails**, and **Happy-hour drinks**. The establishment is known for its **trendy** and **casual** atmosphere, making it a favorite spot among different **groups** of people.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Experience the lively ambiance and delightful drinks at Natoma Cabana for a memorable night out in San Francisco.

BarVIA#15
What stands out
  • Lovely rooftop bar with a great view and delicious food

  • Excellent happy hour specials with a wide selection of craft beers

  • Amazing view, friendly staff, and creative cocktails

  • Great customer service and atmosphere, perfect for pre-gaming

BarVIA

4.553 reviews
138 King St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

BarVIA is a popular rooftop bar located in San Francisco with a stunning view of the city skyline and Bay Bridge. Offering a variety of service options like dine-in with great options including beer and cocktails, BarVIA ensures a memorable experience for its customers. The highlights include fast service, a great beer selection, and delicious cocktails.

Customers have praised BarVIA for its fantastic service and atmosphere, leading to a high rating of 4.5 stars. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

BarVIA also provides accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet, making it inclusive for all guests. With options for reservations and credit card payments, BarVIA aims to make the experience convenient and enjoyable for everyone.

Yerba Buena Bar#16
What stands out
  • Amazing breakfast and hot chocolate with an awesome environment and great music.

  • Staff and drinks are top-notch, making it a happy place to visit.

  • Perfect venue for events with clean space, friendly staff, and great drinks.

  • Clean bar with a cool back room featuring funky seating and a shuffleboard table.

Yerba Buena Bar

4.715 reviews
141 2nd St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Yerba Buena Bar is a popular establishment in San Francisco known for its fast service and great cocktails. The bar offers a range of options from alcohol to beer, spirits, and wine. Customers appreciate the casual and cozy atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot for groups to gather. The wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilets ensure that all patrons can enjoy the experience.

Customer reviews rave about the bar, highlighting a few key points:

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen 4.51,792
#2Zeitgeist 4.32,935
#3Novela 4.31,516
#4District San Francisco 4.4615
#5Alchemist Bar & Lounge 4.3950
#6Mars Bar & Restaurant 4.4549
#7Local Tap 4.4542
#8Driftwood 4.5313
#9Wine Down SF 4.6130
#10The Lark 4.3587
#11Victory Hall & Parlor 4.4307
#12The Rumpus Room 4.5170
#13Executive Order Bar & Lounge 4.4233
#14Natoma Cabana 4.3336
#15BarVIA 4.553
#16Yerba Buena Bar 4.715

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Map of Bars in SoMa, San Francisco

Looking for a fun night out in SOMA, San Francisco? Look no further! This map features all the top bars in the area so you can plan the perfect pub crawl or happy hour adventure. Whether you're in the mood for craft cocktails, local beers, or live music, SOMA has a bar for every taste. Check out the map below to start your night out right!

How to choose Bars in San Francisco

  1. Unique craft cocktails.
  2. Extensive beer and wine selections.
  3. Live music and entertainment.
  4. Outdoor seating options.
  5. Happy hour specials.
  6. Local craft breweries.
  7. Cozy dive bars.

Frequently asked questions

What are some popular bars in SOMA?

SOMA in San Francisco is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars to choose from. Some popular bars in the area include Temple Nightclub, Harlot, Local Edition, and The Cheaper Pop-Up Bar. Whether you're looking for craft cocktails, live music, or a trendy atmosphere, there's something for everyone in SOMA. If you're in the mood for a unique experience, check out Smuggler's Cove for tiki-inspired cocktails or 2nd Story for panoramic views of the city. For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to The Beer Hall for a wide selection of craft beers on tap. Keep in mind that many bars in SOMA can get crowded, especially on weekends, so be prepared to wait in line or arrive early to secure a spot. Don't forget to bring a valid ID, as many bars have strict age restrictions for entry.

Are there any rooftop bars in SOMA?

If you're looking for a unique drinking experience with stunning views of San Francisco, check out the rooftop bars in SOMA. One popular rooftop bar in the area is El Techo, which offers delicious Latin American cocktails and small plates in a lively atmosphere. Another rooftop bar worth visiting is Dirty Habit, known for its craft cocktails and sophisticated vibe. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline while sipping on your favorite drink. Make sure to dress appropriately, as some rooftop bars have dress codes in place. Keep in mind that rooftop bars can get busy, especially in the evening, so it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance if possible. Whether you're looking for a casual hangout spot or a chic cocktail lounge, SOMA has a rooftop bar to suit your style.

What is the nightlife like in SOMA?

The nightlife in SOMA is lively and diverse, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for dancing the night away at a nightclub or enjoying a craft cocktail at a trendy bar, SOMA has something for everyone. Many bars in SOMA host live music events, DJ sets, and themed parties throughout the week, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. If you're looking for a more intimate setting, check out one of the area's speakeasy-style bars for a unique drinking experience. Keep in mind that some bars in SOMA have age restrictions and dress codes in place, so it's a good idea to check the rules before heading out for the night. Whether you're looking for a low-key evening or a night of dancing, SOMA has plenty of options to choose from.

How late do bars in SOMA stay open?

Bars in SOMA typically have varying closing times, with some staying open until 2:00 am on weekdays and 4:00 am on weekends. However, individual bars may have different operating hours, so it's best to check the specific hours of the establishment you plan to visit. Keep in mind that certain bars in SOMA may have extended hours for special events or holidays, so it's always a good idea to call ahead or check their website for the most up-to-date information. Some bars may also have a last call for drinks before closing, so make sure to plan accordingly. If you're planning a night out in SOMA and want to keep the party going late, look for bars that have extended hours or special events scheduled. Whether you're a night owl or prefer an early evening drink, SOMA has something for everyone.

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